Soldiers' Angels Kansas City 4th of July: You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet

Well, I wanted to put up the video for the fourth of July as soon as possible with a little story and pictures, but when I realized that Cpl Green was going to be leaving in a week for Camp Pendleton and then off to Iraq in August, I knew that video had to get done first so I could send it to them as soon as possible.

So, here we are, five days later, and I still don't have the video done from our two 4th of July events. That's right. You read that correctly. Soldiers' Angels know that our troops do not get a holiday, so we didn't take one either. On 4th of July we hit the Parkville, MO annual 4th of July parade and then ended up at Community America Stadium where the Kansas City Royals Minor League team, the T-Bones, asked us to carry on the flags of the United States.

I really can't say enough about our great Angels here in Kansas City who are stepping forward to participate in these events. There are so many men and women in our military who need our support, but only so many Angels to go around. Thus, the best way to help these men and women is to go out and tell more people about Soldiers' Angels and how to participate in actually providing our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines with tangible support.

Both experiences were wonderful and our Angels were, too!

This is Abby and her husband Brian. Abby is a new Soldiers' Angel and Brian is in the National Guard. This is her first event and we appreciate both of them coming out and supporting Soldiers' Angels at the 4th of July Parade






Robyn and her husband also joined us for the parade. This is Robyn's second event. She was with us for Operations Aces High. She found Soldiers' Angels through our local website talking about our events. We are very happy that she found us! They were great during the parade and, thankfully, they had a big car so that we could ride back "up the hill" to our cars at the end of the parade. Otherwise, it would have been a long, hard climb in the heat.




Robyn brought her friend Ruth, wearing one of our Operation Aces High t-shirts. Robyn and Ruth did yeoman's work handing out cards to the crowd and telling them about Soldiers' Angels. All while trying to keep up with the parade which was moving down hill (literally) very rapidly. We gave out approximately 200 cards to the audience.




Why are you seeing a picture of the American Legion Color Guard? Because these folks have become some great supporters of Soldiers' Angels in the Parkville area. First, they invited us to the Rally in the Alley that was a rip roaring success. Then they provided us with this great spot in the parade. We were second in line behind the American Legion.






The audience was wonderful. We had great responses as we walked through the parade route. Usually, the big applause is for the military that marches with us. We didn't have any this time, just Angels and our banner. We could hear people reading the banner. Once they figured out what we did, they were applauding very nicely.

Of course, I have video of the crowd sending well wishes to our troops. That will be coming shortly and sent out to our men and women serving in various locations.

Here are a few other pictures of the parade entries:




















Well, as that old song goes: You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet! They don't call us the BBQ capitol of the world for nothing! Kansas City Soldiers' Angels was cookin' on the 4th of July.

On the evening of the 4th, we were invited to walk on the field for the KC T-Bones v. Winnepeg Goldeneyes along with the Patriot Guard Riders for the T-Bones Military Appreciation Night. Once again, we were announced to an audience of the thousands as we carried out the flags of our states. What a super event!

The KC T-Bones are the minor league team for the KC Royals. The Royals are just a great organization and we love these activities because it really lets people know that there is an organization where they can translate their support meaningful actions.

I have to say, before we went into the stadium, I got a big surprise when one of the Patriot Guard Riders I hadn't met yet tapped me on my shoulder and asked, "You're Soldiers' Angels?" and before I could answer he gave me a big hug and said, "Thank you all for what you are doing!" I could barely focus the camera after that!

Here's our very own Julie O. handing out cards and information to American Legion Riders, Patriot Guard and anyone else who hadn't heard of our organization. Everyone took the cards, but it was the Angel pins that were the most requested. Patriot Guard and American Legion Riders all want to wear a Soldiers' Angel pin. I think we can start auctioning those off! They're like gold!





Here is Julie giving a Soldiers' Angels pocket Angel to the oldest surviving member of the last unit of Buffalo Soldiers. He threw out the first pitch at the KC Royals on June 16 and at the KC T-Bones on the 4th.











Here are some Angels and Riders with the Marine Color Guard before the game began. The Marines looked very spiffy in their uniforms and didn't even crack a smile. They trained them well! Right up until Julie handed them some thank you cards. Then they cracked a small smile. Only Angels can crack a United States Marine!








Here's the view from center field as we stood during the American Anthem and the US Marine Corp presented the colors. Tom "Wingman" from the PGR played the National Anthem on his trumpet from somewhere up in the boxes. He did a great job. Of course, the Angels and the PGR were announced to the audience of over 5000. Not bad for a game that started out rainy.




Then the KC T-bones mascot came up into the stands with a camouflage uniform on and many hugs and photos with the kids. Sadly, I was too busy taking photos to get a hug from the best piece of beef steak north of the Mason Dixon.




The evening ended with a bang to some great American Music.

I hope your Independence day was as great as ours! If you missed these events and really want to participate, we have some really wonderful activities coming up. Make sure you watch this site and our left side bar under Scheduled Events and Fund Raisers to find out what and when.

I guarantee: YOU AIN'T SEEN NOTHIN' YET!


- May no soldier go unloved

Welcome Home USMC Cpl Green

Soldiers' Angels Kansas City has been very busy these last few weeks. On July 7, 2007, we participated in the welcome home mission with the Patriot Guard and American Legion Riders for Cpl John Green of the United States Marine Corps.

John's mother belongs to the American Legion and so do her two boys, Cpl John Green and LCpl Stephen Green. She asked for this special welcome home for a good reason. This is a part of her letter to all of the riders and Soldiers' Angels:

7 July 2007, Saturday 5:45pm

Dear American Legion Riders:

Thanks for everyone, including Soldier’s Angels and all who welcomed our son, U.S. Marine Corporal John A. Green home from a 2-year overseas deployment.

Cpl. Green is now on his pre-Iraq leave for about a week, then deploys to Iraq in August 2007.[snip]

Thanks for everything that made the day memorable and will encourage him as he soon deploys for Iraq. He was been overseas on a 2-years, and sent to Camp Pendleton is turning around and going immediately on a deployment to Iraq with no dwell time. Your welcome gave him motivation and encouragement as he deploys to Iraq in the searing summer heat.

And we were glad to supply that motivation.

Now, here is a little motivation for you to start your Monday off and reminding you that there is a lot of great fun, joy and pride to be had when you are a Soldiers' Angel.



His mother wrote a little more:

Cpl. Green thought the escort from KCI Airport was awesome and was so impressed that as we were driving home with the escort in front and back, he said, to us, “Are you sure they don’t think I earned the Medal of Honor with this welcome?” We told him, no, they were not mistaken; they were doing this for him![snip]

Cpl. Green’s brother, Lance Corporal Stephen Green is also a Marine, now deployed to Okinawa, Japan, and he is taking a week’s leave and returns home to KC Mon. 7-9-07 to
see his brother before Cpl. John Green leaves for Iraq.[snip]

Thanks again, our troops really need the support. Keep all the troops in your prayers, and pray for Cpl. Green as he deploys to Iraq. He left for recruit training right after he graduated from Bishop Miege in 2004 and has been overseas ever since on deployments, so it is special that he is able to return home, but bittersweet in that in a short time he will be on combat patrols in Iraq. We were very glad you got to see him in between deployments. It is special to him and all of his family. We wish his brother Stephen could have seen it, but his leave does not start until Monday July 9^th . We will show him the DVD when the lady from Soldier’s Angels sends it.

It really means a lot that you all care and took time out of your Saturday to show up and greet this returning Marine. He did not know you were coming, and it was planned with true efficiency by your group on short notice, and in our opinion went flawlessly.[snip]

Sincerely, and with kindest regards.

Mr. and Mrs. Green

Yes, I am the lady with the camera and the two copies of the video are being delivered tomorrow so that Cpl Green can take one with him when he heads to Camp Pendleton and then Iraq.

Of course, we wish him the best of luck and our prayers will be with both Cpl Green and his family.

Semper Fi!



- May no soldier go unloved

Kansas City Angel Events and Fund Raisers

As our Regional Manager, Marcia, said in a recent email to area Angels, our summer calendar went from zero to 60 in less than a week.

We have a lot of things going on and we are looking for Angels and other supporters of the troops in the Kansas City Area to come out and show their love for our troops and veterans.

First up, as noted in our side bar to the left, Kansas City Soldiers' Angels will be participating in the Belton Community Days Parade in Belton, Missouri. We will be carrying a banner and marching with a larger group of troop supporters and military folks, carrying our banner and signs. We are looking forward to showing Belton how much we support the troops. We are also looking forward to meeting fellow supporters of our fine military folks and sharing in the great fun and camaraderie we always experience at these events.

If you are an Angel or just want to come out and show your support, we will be meeting at Teri Louthain's at 7:30 AM Saturday, June 23. For more information, you can contact Julie O'Neil, Community Team Leader in the Overland Park, Kansas region at: joneil@cwbkc.com. She will have maps and other information available.

We will car pool from Teri's to reduce our parking exposure.

We look forward to seeing you there.

If you can't make it to the Parade, there is another event taking place.

Kansas City Veterans' Hospital is holding an R&R for veterans Friday and Saturday, June 22 and 23. They will be providing food, special items and assistance with legal, tax and other issues for our local veterans. Kansas City Soldiers' Angels is invited to attend. For times and details, please watch this blog or email me at: kehenry1@hotmail.com.

We want to tell our veterans that we appreciate their service. Join me in honoring those who helped insure that we remain the land of the free.

I can assure you, every time I meet with and speak to veterans, I find great inspiration in continuing to volunteer.

Parkville American Legion Post 318: Rally in the Alley

June 30, 2007 3pm to Midnight. Here is a great opportunity for Soldiers' Angels and others who are interested in showing their support for the troops. Parkville, Missouri American Legion Post 318 is hosting the "Rally in the Alley". This rally will raise money for the Legion's "Support the Troops" fund that the Legion regularly uses to donate to organizations supporting the troops including things like paying for postage of large shipments of care packages to the troops, calling cards, veterans needs and many other great support projects.

Soldiers' Angels has been invited to set up a table and take part in the event that will include at least six blue grass bands, lots of food, drinks and fun. We look forward to supporting the Parkville American Legion as they have pledged to support the Angels and our efforts.

We're looking for Angels to help man the booth and tell people about our organization. With a troop surge on and battles raging, we have many troops that need our support. That means we need to let people know how they can provide that support. I'll be there from 2pm (set up) until 8pm (longer if the crowd is good). For more information on volunteering for our event, please email me at: kehenry1@hotmail.com.

If you're not a member of Soldiers' Angels, come on down, enjoy the music and show your support for our troops!

Fourth of July Parade in Parkville

If you've never been to Parkville's Fourth of July celebration, you have missed one of the biggest "small town" events in our area. Every year the fireworks over the river is bigger and better. Even this year, after the flood that put a lot of mud into English Landing Park, Parkville is raring to go. Everything has been cleaned up and the event promises to be as great as the previous years'.

Again, the Parkville American Legion has come through and offered to let us march with them in their slot on the parade. The parade begins at 10:00 AM. We will be meeting before hand at the Parkville American Legion to arrange staging for the parade. We will be carrying the Soldiers' Angels Banner and any signs we can get our hands on.

Most important, we need people who are willing to march in the parade and show what a great organization Soldiers' Angels is for supporting our troops. We want people to know that there is a way for them to get involved. Most importantly, we want to support our troops by bringing more people and resources to our organization. Our troops deserve our support.

If you want to come on down and assist the Angels march in the parade, Angel or civilian, please contact me at kehenry1@hotmail.com for details, times and directions.

I will be at the events after the parade as well as the American Legion has also offered to let us put out brochures and fliers at their food stand during the post parade carnival. I will be manning the post and walking around the carnival handing out information. This is a really big event in the Northland and we have an opportunity to spread the word.

If you're not Angel or you can't make it to the Parade, come on down to see the fireworks, enjoy the food and the rides at the carnival. Make sure you stop by the American Legion food booth to support this great organization.

We look forward to seeing you there!

As you can see, we're going to be very busy the next few weeks and we like it like that. The more we can spread the word, the more our troops get the support they need. We encourage all Angels and those who just want to support the troops to join us for the fun and satisfaction of supporting our military men and women!



- May no soldier go unloved

Day at the K - Soldiers' Angels, Patriot Guards Support the Troops

Saturday, June 16, 2007 was "Military Appreciation Day" at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals. Soldiers' Angels, the Patriot Guard and the American Legion Riders were on hand to show how we support the troops!



It was hot and muggy. We started off meeting at the American Legion Post 370 in Overland Park, Kansas. We went to a secondary staging area at the old Bannister Mall where we re-grouped and everyone had a few minutes to admire the motorcycles. The ride captain for the Patriot Guards gave everyone last minute instructions. In particular, STAY OFF THE GRASS!



Everyone jumped on the bikes and into their cars. Then our caravan was on the way. I took the opportunity to shoot some video (of course). We had close to 40 bikes and appx 8-10 cars. A welcome home mission was happening that morning and many joined us later at the K.


We made quite a spectacle going down the highway with all the flags flying. We were stationed in parking lot K behind the stadium in order to access the entrance for the opening event. Soldiers' Angels walked through the parking lots throughout the stadium, handing out cards and showing appreciation to our military men and women in attendance. It was fantastic fun and great comradeship among our organizations and troop supporters.



















A naval reserve component was tasked with walking on to the field with the flags of all fifty states. They organized near our area and came over to admire the bikes before sorting out the order of marching. As noted, it was extremely hot and muggy. After formation was sorted out, we offered water to some of the reserve folks who looked very warm in their uniforms. Soon, in the spirit of Soldiers' Angels around the world, the word spread that we had water and we were handing it out faster than we could get it in the cooler to every enlisted or officer that we could find. Eventually, we were down to nothing but ice and some plastic cups. We gave that away, too!

Many of those who came by for water offered to pay for it. Of course, we told them, "No Way! We're Soldiers' Angels and WE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!" We did give them our website and told them that they should log on, sign up or, if they felt really pressed to thank us for the water, donate directly to the Angels so that we can continue supporting their deployed brethern.



We then had another briefing before lining up to go into the stadium. Angels walked on carrying American flags, followed closely by the Patriot Guard Riders who made the stadium ROCK! when they opened their throttles in the tunnel to the outfield. The crowd went crazy!















While we were waiting for the Young Marines from Belton, Missouri to bring out the giant flag, some Florida Marlins came out of the bullpen to admire the bikes. The Young Marines had the flag in place and the announcer presented the field to the audience. Over 24,000 people heard about Soldiers' Angels and the Patriot Guards, applause for the troops could be heard for miles. We stood proud for the Angels and for our troops!














An Army Reserve band from Lawrence, Kansas played the National Anthem. As the band played, "O'er the land of the free...", the Patriot Guard Riders opened up their throttles again, the roar of the pipes echoed through the stadium. As the band played, "And the home of the brave" the roaring bikes merged with the thunder of Marine jets as they hit the afterburners and passed overhead. And the crowd went wild again!



It was an awesome event. If you enjoyed the pictures, watch the video at the bottom of this post.

If you are a Kansas City area Angel and would like to participate in these events, watch out for announcements at this site or read our monthly newsletter. You can also email Kansas City Soldiers' Angels at kcsoldiersangelsmo1@gmail.com for information on upcoming events or if you would like to organize a local event.

If you're not a part of Soldiers' Angels yet, what are you waiting for?! Join Soldiers' Angels and let our men and women know that WE SUPPORT THE TROOPS!




- May no soldier go unloved

Royals: Military Appreciation Night Saturday June 16

So, you want to know what the KC Angels are up to?

We're going to join the PGR and the American Legion Riders at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Saturday, June 16, for Military Appreciation Night. We will meet at the American Legion Post 370 in Overland Park at 1pm to form a line to ride to the stadium where we will set up in the parking lot (tentatively parking lot "k") for tail-gaiting and general mingling, hobnobbing and working the crowd.

Then, sometime around 4pm, the PGR and members will take the field on their motorcycles with giant flags, along with sailors holding the flags of the states, two marines taking their re-enlistment/enlistment oaths, a flyover from Whiteman AFB and, post game fireworks.

What are you doing Saturday?

Come on down and enjoy the tail-gaiting, the hobnobbing and supporting our troops.

- May no soldier go unloved

Radar Love: Operation Aces High Video

UPDATED!!!! There it is. Finally, the video. I guarantee the wait was worth it.

Enjoy. (Ignore the "image coming soon"; I promise the video works)



Message from Soldiers' Angels' Patti:

Awesome just Awesome,
Thank you from my heart,
Love
patti

and

I could spend my life working night and day and still not ever be able to repay you for this magnifient event.
I think we should make copies of this and put in backpacks,
I love you
Patti

Debby Frerichs, Soldiers' Angels VP

This is fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You did a super job with this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU

Debby

What are you waiting for? Watch the video!


- May no soldier go unloved

Keeping Busy Supporting Our Troops

We continue to stay busy supporting our troops. Since the American Legion Riders from Post 370 were so gracious as to assist Soldiers' Angels KC with our poker run last weekend, some angels volunteered to come out and stand post at the stops to hand out cards and water so more of the Legion Riders could participate.

Sunday, June 10, 2007 was Bobo's Breakdown Adventure, named after an American Legion member "Bobo" who is a 17 year member and recently returned from Iraq after serving with the National Guard. Bobo's bike has a history of breaking down on every motorcycle ride the Legion takes. Thus, "Bobo's Breakdown Adventure".



This ride was for "Operation Phone Home", providing calling cards for our troops deployed overseas. This is the first poker run officially held by the American Legion Riders from Post 370. The cards are usually provided to our local Angels to send with care packages. The American Legion continues to raise money for these cards through breakfast every third Sunday of the month and dinner every third Thursday.

The day started out rainy and everyone was concerned about the turn out. But, the weather cooperated and the rain stopped, though it remained largely overcast. The American Legion Posts that provided our stops were fantastic! I was at the last stop in Spring Hill, KS, Post 350 Cole and Smith. This is a relatively small post in a small town, but they had the biggest hearts. Practically the entire auxiliary showed up and stayed with us throughout the four hours we manned the post. There are only eight ladies in the auxillary, but they do the work of 80. These ladies have worked with their community to provide care packages for the troops and support local veterans. They do volunteer work with the Legion to raise money, work with their local high school community volunteer program and many more. They exemplify the legion code of "community service". No wonder they take home the most awards at the annual district ceremonies.

I told them about our organization and they were especially interested in "blankets of hope" since many of their ladies sow. I'm committed to sending them information on our program, some nice thank you notes and some Angel pins.

The Legion adjutant, commander and vice-commander also appeared, providing the water and keeping us company throughout our post. If you have a chance to work with or just talk to these folks, you would understand what a great organization the American Legion is and why they are such wonderful partners with Soldiers' Angels. Larry Mehilic, adjutant, explained that their small post provides assundries and "canteen coupons" for the VA. Since they are in Kansas, their support goes to Leavenworth VA while other local legions might provide for Topeka and Witchita.

God bless these fine folks!

They might be a small American Legion Post, but they have big hearts and true motivating spirit! I think I got an extra dose of motivation just from being with them!

Special thanks to Blanche Fountain, Auxiliary President; Larry (Please excuse me for missing your last name) Commander; Larry Mihelic, Adjutant; Ed Hodge, vice-commander; Christina Hecke, Helen Hecke and Brenda Boydston, Auxiliary for making my stop so wonderful. Not to forget American Legion posts Olathe, Baldwin City and Ottawa.

We had over 30 hands and about 15 raffle items besides the 50/50. The ALR Riders netted appx $2800. That's a lot of calling cards.

Greetings from Post 350 Vice-Commander and Adjutant














Auxiliary ladies who came and kept us company










What light through yonder dust breaks? It is the Star Spangled Banner and the last of the riders come to set the last angel "free".












Apparently, it was very exhausting work for the young folks, though the veteran riders had no problem hanging in and hanging out.

























The future of the American Legion is in good hands.

God bless our troops and keep them safe!




- May no soldier go unloved

Supporting Our Troops in Kansas City

Soldiers' Angels KC doesn't have it's own events planned for June, but we are participating with and supporting other organizations and events. Take a look at what's going on in our area for supporting the troops

Wish List for VA in Kansas City, MO

A member of Soldiers’ Angels VA Support/None Forgotten team has been in touch with our local VA and has posted a wish list. If you would like to donate some of these items (new items only please) give Monique a call and let her know you are from Soldiers’ Angels and want to make a donation.

Kansas City VA Medical Center 4801 Linwood Boulevard Kansas City, MO 64128
Contact Person: Monique Pena 1-800-525-1483

Wish List: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, shaving cream, combs, denture adhesive, cotton socks, Tshirts, briefs, puzzle books, paperbacks, puzzles, phone cards, postage stamps, coffee.

Hey! If you're not from Soldiers' Angels, but you want to support our veterans, please do so. All of our veterans deserve our thanks for keeping us free!

Military Appreciation Night at the “K” Saturday June 16th

The Royals will be honoring military personnel during two special nights at Kauffman Stadium in 2007. Military Appreciation Night, which will feature a patriotic pre-game ceremony honoring local heroes, is set for Saturday, June 16 as Kansas City takes on the Florida Marlins at 6:10 pm. The first 20,000 fans in attendance will receive a free "Stars and Stripes" Royals cap. Special ticket locations and pricing for members of the military are available through the Royals Group Sales Department. Please contact Jon Weinman at (816) 504-4476 for more information. The Royals will also host a Salute to Uniformed Heroes Night on Tuesday, Sept. 11.

Bobo's Big Adventure

That's right! Another Poker Run! This time to get calling cards for our troops! There's nothing like being able to call home for a few minutes, learn that everything is alright or tell the family that their loved one is still alive and well to decompress the stress of continuous missions. When our soldiers, sailors, air force and marines are stressed out, they are not focused on the mission. When they are not focused on the mission, people can be seriously injured or worse. These cards are real morale boosters.

You can make a difference.

Just what is a Bobo?...click here to find out

The American Legion Riders Post 370 is hosting a Poker Run with all proceeds going to buy phone cards to send to our troops that are serving in harms way for their country.

Sunday June 10, 2007

The poker run will start and finish at American Legion post 370 at 7500 W 75st, Overland Park Ks
Registration to begin at 9:00 am with the last bike out at 11:00am
Returning bikes need to be in by 4:30pm with the prizes announced at 5:00pm
American Legion Post 370, 7500 W. 75th St., Overland Park, KS
Pre- Registration $10.00 minimum donation must be mailed by May 19th, 2007 (Rain or Shine, cagers welcome) $15.00 minimum donation at the door/ Extra hand $5.00 each.


Click here to Pre-Register now !!!

- May no soldier go unloved